What's the Best Exercise for Your Age?

If your typical workout routine never changes, you're missing out. Here's what you should be doing at the gym, based on your goals and your age

Most of us have an arsenal of serums and creams to fight wrinkles -- so why aren't we taking the same all-in approach when it comes to tackling another major pitfall of aging: a slowing metabolism?

According to the Center for Disease Control, the average American woman gains almost a pound a year after age 20, meaning that the fear of turning 40 and being stuck with an extra five, 10, or even 20 pounds is perfectly legitimate. And the longer you wait to develop a fitness strategy, the harder it's going to be to get rid of the pooch.

While hormones are part of the equation, especially as your body changes during different phases of life, your weight is within your control. "The reason we get weaker and out of shape as we get older isn't so much about biological factors as it is about lifestyle factors," says Dan Trink, Director of Personal Training Operations at Peak Performance in New York City. "If you stay active, you'll have a strong, healthy body your whole life."

Trink, along with all the experts we spoke with, believes that it isn't about adding specific exercises to your routine as you age -- it's more about adjusting your workouts to your changing lifestyle and hormonal profile. "A lot of the training for different age groups is going to be similar," says Maria Pagano, RD, exercise physiologist and Tier 4 Personal Training Manager at Equinox. "But the reasons behind it are different."

Whether you're looking to amp up your routine to get rid of a few pesky pounds or you haven't worked out in years, it's never too late -- or too soon -- to start. "At any age, the risks of being sedentary far outweigh the risks of pulling a muscle," says Trink. "Getting to the gym is much safer than sitting in a chair for the rest of your life."

You heard the man. Now, are you ready to get off your couch and onto a treadmill? See the best workout for your age now.

I'm in my 20's and I think it's really important to vary your routine and only do things that you enjoy, then you're more likely to stick with it. Also changing up your routine confuses your body and you are less likely to get used to doing the same exercise over and over, then you hit a plateau and have to change your routine. Some days I do Zumba, walk my dog, cardio kick-boxing or a more intense strength training workout. Even if I'm super lazy I'll still fit in a short walk or yoga, once you get going you almost always want to continue. It's good to have a workout buddy, if you know someone is depending on you to show up, you're more likely to follow through. Also check your local parks and recreation. Often they have free classes. Mine offers free yoga and Zumba. They also have great hiking trails which are free, so no need to pay for a gym membership.